Employee Spotlight: Andy Hart Shows How a Little Time Can Make a Big Difference

For Andy Hart, an electrical inspector with the City of Toledo's Division of Building Inspection, last year's Customer Service Week inspired him to take his volunteer work a step further. What began as helping with office tasks at a local hospice grew into spending time directly with hospice patients, where he discovered how much a little time and attention can mean to someone.

Already volunteering at a local hospice, Hart saw Customer Service Week as an opportunity to become even more involved. He completed the necessary paperwork and background check just before the 2025 Service Week and began spending time directly with hospice patients.

He has met some incredible people along the way, but one gentleman in particular has stayed with him. What started as a simple visit to help rearrange some furniture in the man's room has grown into a genuine friendship.

"We share stories about what's happening in our lives, and he tells me about his experiences and adventures over the years. Honestly, some of his stories could fill a novel," Hart said.

The friendship has also created opportunities for meaningful conversations about the patient's fears and feelings about his hospice journey.

"What touches me most, though, is when he feels comfortable enough to share his fears and feelings about his hospice journey. Those conversations mean a great deal to me, and I'm grateful that he trusts me enough to have them," Hart said.

Through volunteering, Hart has learned that even small gestures can make a lasting difference in someone's life.

"We're all busy, and it's easy to get caught up in our own schedules and responsibilities. But sometimes just taking a little time out of your day to show someone kindness, compassion, or simply give them your attention can mean more than you realize," Hart said.

"Something as simple as sitting down, listening, and being present can completely change someone's day."

Hart hopes sharing his experience will encourage others to consider volunteering, even though he admits he is not entirely comfortable with the recognition.

"It's really humbled me. I don't really even feel comfortable with this recognition, but I figure if I can encourage even one more person to volunteer with hospice, then it's worth it," Hart said.

At the City, Hart draws on years of experience in the electrical industry to help keep Toledo residents safe. Before joining the City nearly two years ago, he worked as an electrician with IBEW Local 8. His current role allows him to apply that experience in a different way, helping ensure electrical installations throughout the city are safe and meet required codes.

"More than anything, what I enjoy about my job is helping people. My responsibility is to make sure electrical installations are safe and meet the required codes, whether that's in someone's home, at their workplace, or in buildings throughout our community," Hart said.

He takes pride in knowing his work helps protect the people who live, work and visit Toledo. He also appreciates the teamwork within the Division of Building Inspection and the shared commitment to serving the community.

"What keeps me motivated is very much the people I work alongside. We have a great team in the Building Department, and I really appreciate the way everyone supports one another. It's rewarding to be part of a department where people genuinely care about their work and the community we serve," Hart said.

A Toledo native, Hart spends his time outside work with family, cheering from the sidelines at volleyball games or competing in bass fishing tournaments when time allows.

"Family is a big part of my life, and I enjoy making the most of the time we get to spend together. Between work, family activities, volunteering, and fishing, there's usually not a whole lot of downtime, but I wouldn't have it any other way!" Hart said.

Through both his work and volunteer service, Hart demonstrates that helping others does not always require a grand gesture. Sometimes, making a difference starts with ensuring someone's safety or simply taking the time to sit down, listen and be present.

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